2Tim 1:12 (NLT) are the words used by so many when on their death bed, “for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return.” Ransomed by the sacrifice of Christ, washed from sin in his blood, clothed in His Righteousness, waiting for the resurrection at the second coming, Paul has the witness in himself that his life is precious in the sight of the redeemer. 

Footsteps #433. Like a trumpet, his voice has rung out through all the ages with these words of joy that have encouraged many martyrs, “As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. ⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. ⁸ And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” 2 Tim 4:6-8(NLT)  

Upon his arrival at Rome, Paul had been placed in a gloomy dungeon, there to remain until his course should be finished. Accused of instigating one of the basest and most terrible of crimes against the city and the nation, he was the object of universal scorn. The few friends who had shared the burdens of the apostle now began to leave him, some by desertion, and others on missions to the various churches. Phygellus and Hermogenes were the first to go. Then Demas, dismayed by the thickening clouds of difficulty and danger, forsook the persecuted apostle. Crescens was sent by Paul to the churches of Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia, Tychicus to Ephesus. 

Writing to Timothy of this experience, Paul said, “Only Luke is with me.” 2 Timothy 4:11. Never had the apostle needed the ministrations of his brethren as now, enfeebled as he was by age, toil, and infirmities, and confined in the damp, dark 

vaults of a Roman prison! The services of Luke, the beloved disciple and faithful friend, were a great comfort to Paul and enabled him to communicate with his brethren and the world without. Onesiphorus visited and cheered Paul in prison and received special thanks from Paul in his final letter. (2Tim1:16-18)